Evelyn Weeden Burton

My Obituary 

Evelyn Maxine Weeden Jackson Burton was a devoted woman of God whose life of faith, service, and leadership left a lasting impact on her family, church, and community. She was called to her heavenly home on Monday, January 5, 2026. Born the eighth child of Rev. Dr. John T. Weeden Sr. and Gladys Mae Weeden, Evelyn proudly embraced her role as the ultimate "Big Sister," nurturing her siblings through faith, music, and love. Baptized by her father at Eastern Star Baptist Church in Indianapolis, she later served there faithfully as a Sunday School teacher. 

Evelyn's life was marked by deep devotion to family and ministry. Through her marriage to Rev. Wilbert Jackson, she gained a bonus son, LaMar Jackson, and together they welcomed two beloved daughters, Deborah A. Jackson-Robinson and Dianne M. Jackson. She later married Rev. Ralph Burton, Pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church in Struthers, Ohio, where she was affectionately known as "Mother Evelyn." Her presence brought wisdom, warmth, and encouragement wherever she served. 

A passionate educator, Evelyn graduated from Crispus Attucks High School, earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Wilberforce University, and a Master of Education from Case Western Reserve University. She dedicated more than 35 years to Cleveland Public Schools as a kindergarten teacher and an additional 10 years as a substitute teacher. She treasured reconnecting with former students who credited her for shaping their lives. 

Evelyn served the church locally, nationally, and internationally. She traveled extensively on mission work, including five trips to the Holy Lands, and worked closely alongside her father in ministry. Her leadership roles included President of the Ohio Baptist State Convention Women's Auxiliary, President of the United Missionary Baptist Convention of Ohio, Congress Instructor at district and state levels, and leadership in numerous church and civic organizations. Evelyn encouraged young people to serve beyond the local church and willingly supported their call to ministry. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Ralph Burton; her daughter, Dianne M. Jackson; her parents; and several siblings. 

Evelyn leaves cherished memories with her devoted daughter and caregiver, Debroah A. Robinson; her son, her grandson, Rev. Kenneth J. Robinson; siblings John T. Weeden Jr. (Elizabeth) and Phyllis Weeden-Oliver; her great-granddaughter, Zuri Kennedy Robinson. She will also be fondly remembered by a host of family and friends who lovingly called her "Auntie," "Mother," and "Ma Evelyn.

A Public Viewing will be held on January 16, 2026, from 4:00PM to 6:00PM at the House Of Peace Funeral Home, 4105 East 71st Street, Cleveland, OH. A Celebration of Life service will be held on January 17, 2026, with a 10:00AM Wake and 10:30AM Service at St. Timothy Missionary Baptist Church, 7101 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH. Pastor Kenneth J. Robinson, Eulogist. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH.

We welcome you to provide your thoughts, memories, and pictures on Mother Evelyn's tribute wall. To send a flower arrangement in memory of Evelyn, please click here to visit our sympathy store.